Manchester City defeated in Premier League 2 play-offs despite Floyd Samba double

• Man City’s PL2 journey ends
• Defeat suffered to Man United
• Floyd Samba brace not enough

Manchester City have lost their PL2 play-off semi-final to Manchester United after contesting a seven-goal thriller.

The Citizens got off to a dream start on Friday evening. Reigan Heskey played a perfect through ball to Floyd Samba, and the midfielder delivered a powerful finish.

Floyd Samba fires us in front! 💥

Watch our #PL2 play-off semi-final clash with United LIVE on CITY+ ⤵️

▶️ https://t.co/cfUncdAeas pic.twitter.com/pRBmEwMg9G

— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 8, 2026

However, Chido Obi struck back for the visitors after 29 minutes and only a short while later he made it 2-1 to United.

City’s task got even harder, as they gave away a penalty shortly before half-time which was scored by Shea Lacey.

Half time: Manchester City 1-3 Manchester United

Second half comeback not enough

Just moments after the break, Jack Moorhouse landed on the scoresheet to give the Red Devils a significant advantage.

It seemed at this point like Man City’s chances might be dead and buried, but Mamad Sangare headed the ball in from close range after 48 minutes.

Mamad Sangare pulls a goal back! 💪

Watch the second-half of our #PL2 play-off semi-final LIVE on CITY+ ⤵️

▶️ https://t.co/cfUncdAeas pic.twitter.com/AFpkigJi8B

— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 8, 2026

City kept on fighting and Samba scored in the 82nd minute, once again assisted by Heskey. Despite having seven minutes of additional time to worth with, they were unable to find an equaliser.

Full time: Manchester City 3-4 Manchester United

There was not much to separate the Manchester rivals

Manchester City had 53 per cent of the possession, taking 22 shots compared with Man United’s lesser tally of 16.

City landed 12 on target, while the Red Devils tested goalkeeper Spike Brits on 10 different occasions, reflecting how close the match was.

Despite his best efforts and Man City’s higher number of efforts, it was United who were able to come away with the victory.

City under-18s will be hoping for a better result

Next Thursday will see another Manchester derby take place at the Joie Stadium, only this time it will be contested by the under-18s team.

The winner of the game will be crowned as champions of the FA Youth Cup final, so the stakes are arguably even higher.

Kick off will be at 19:00 local time and it is likely to be a full house as both sets of supporters scramble to secure a ticket.